Idris Elba says he has coronavirus; urges 'no panic'

WASHIGNTON (SBG) -- Actor Idris Elba has tested positive for the coronavirus, according to a video shared via his Twitter account.

In the video rapidly going viral on social media, the 47-year-old English actor explained he tested positive for COVID-19 Monday morning.

Elba said his wife, Sabrina, had not been tested for the virus by the time the video was shared.

Elba, People Magazine's Sexiest Man Alive in 2018, said he has shown no symptoms so far.

Elba quarantined himself Friday when he learned he had been exposed to someone who tested positive for the virus. He was tested immediately and results came back Monday.

"Stay home people and be pragmatic. I will keep you updated on how I’m doing ???????? No panic," Elba wrote.

Reiterating what health officials have said, Elba reminded the public of the situation's seriousness but reinforced the necessity of doing the basics: wash your hands, social distancing and if you're feeling ill, "do something about it."

“We live in a divided world right now. We can all feel it,” he added. “But now's the time for solidarity, for thinking about each other.”

Elba is the latest high profile celebrity to have tested positive for the virus. Last week, Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson said they had also tested positively in Australia.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough, The Associated Press reports. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.